Roman Fillyaw '17 Recruiting Profile

I know this reads as hyperbolic, but Lacrosse has changed my life. The lessons and discipline I have learned and continue to learn on the field translate into my life as a student, as a citizen and as a maturing adult. Lacrosse has taught me humility, collaboration and leadership. Humility comes from realizing that there’s always room for improvement. I look to my coaches and senior teammates for advice and counsel on how to better my game and contribute to my team optimally. Collaboration comes from understanding that we win and lose together – no matter what. I am an integral component of larger machine. If I do my job well, we all benefit. Leadership has come from my evolution as player and my growing understanding of the game. My transition after three years from defense to midfielder has opened up my views, helping me to see the larger, big picture strategy of each game I play. This has made me a better leader on the field – I’m able to orchestrate unscripted plays, while anticipating the opponent’s reaction, several steps ahead.

What some might see as purely athletic skills specific to Lacrosse, I see as invaluable life skills that will carry me through college and into my professional career. My goal is to have a career in global intelligence and law, working for either the FBI, CIA or Homeland Security. The strategic and critical thinking skills that I’m acquiring on the lacrosse field are improving my analytical aptitude. The leadership skills I display on the field today will help me become a strong decision maker, and paired with my collaboration ability, I will be able to rally my colleagues.  

Off the field, I strategically chose to apply to The Global Studies Center for my high school education. With my future career in mind, I chose Middle Eastern Studies which includes learning to speak Arabic. Along with traditional high school courses (three of which are honors this year), my studies delve into Middle East history, traditions and culture, and I am developing a solid base of knowledge for the troubled area.

At the collegiate level, my intention is to continue with global studies adding an analytical focus, and to take my lacrosse game to the new heights. I am extremely coachable and adaptable, and bring intelligence and a strategic thinking to the game. I have a reputation for having a focused work ethic and for showing tenacity when it comes to skill development, and I’m known to hold myself to a high standard when it comes to personal character.  I am motivated by the desire to make my parents, my team and my coaches proud.